The Event Gift Dilemma - Produce A Handmade Quilt

A hand quilter will use a frame or a hoop to keep all pieces together while using a variety of basic running stitches in and out of each piece while stretched taut. It's at this point where details are sewn with as little or as much as the quilter prefers. From the outlining of patterns to hand stitching every petal of every flower in each block. This is time consuming but often the most rewarding part of quilting.

Size is the first element to consider when it comes to making baby quilts. A baby quilt should be significantly smaller than a typical quilt. Some quilts can be used for comforters or as bedding in cribs, so it is a wise choice to create a quilt that is fitted to match the size of the crib. In addition size can relate to the thickness of the quilt. Quilts that are constructed for adult use or even decoration are quite thick. However a quilt made for a baby should be relatively thin.

Blanket Quilt Don't be afraid to use your handmade quilt. The layers and the warmth of the batting make it perfect for keeping you warm cold winter nights. Even after many years of use, this author has several quilts that are still in excellent condition.

I have made two of these quilts and my daughter is now making one for herself. It is fun to add the fancy pocket designs that many jeans have. And by all means use other colors if you like to your quilt. Jeans are not all blue. I have added green, white, purple, black, tie-dyed and acid washed. Then denim is a very durable fabric and is also heavy enough so that the wind will not blow it around on your picnic or at the beach.

If you aren't a crafty person, don't worry about it. Buying a beautiful baby blanket can be just as special. No one says you have to spend a lot of money for something to be from the heart. The same goes for crafts. Not everyone is artistic and crafty. If you don't have to knack for crafts, use your talent of choosing a beautiful blanket. Think about it, wouldn't you rather have your child get a beautiful blanket that they purchased than a 5 inch lopsided crocheted blanket?

I cut the denim into 4 inch squares and lay them out on the floor until I get the look I want. If your are using child sized jeans you may want to make smaller squares or even alternate between a 4 inch square and one that is made of 4 squares, 2 inches wide. Be creative. Your quilt blocks can be triangles, diamonds or what ever shape you choose. It is your design so let your imagination run.

Never dry on high heat. Use low temperature to start the drying process then remove it from the dryer and lay it flat to finish drying. Once it is nearly dry, you can put it back in the dryer on low or air for a short time to fluff it up and finish drying.